Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), sometiems labeled as “forever chemicals”, are under rising scrutiny by chemical regulators worldwide.new rules for cosmetics in 2025-2026 signal a shift-regulatory bodies are replacing inconsistent oversight with comprehensive, wide-reaching restrictions on PFAS use in this sector.
This overview examines three core regulatory changes impacting the cosmetics industry: progress on the European Union’s unified PFAS restriction, updates from US agencies, and the implementation of France’s nationwide ban on PFAS in cosmetics.
EU takes steps toward comprehensive PFAS controls
In march 2026, the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) released the Risk Assessment Committee’s (RAC) findings and opened a public comment period for the Socio-Economic Analysis Committee (SEAC) draft opinion.
Stakeholders are invited to weigh in until May 2026, offering input on the financial and operational effects of an EU-wide PFAS ban-with a direct impact on the cosmetics sector.
Consensus is building. Both scientific groups back broad restrictions, recommending limited exemptions with phased-in transition periods. SEAC’s final position should be published by late 2026, after which the European Commission could introduce binding rules as early as 2027.
Cosmetics brands will soon need to stop assessing PFAS ingredient-by-ingredient, and instead adopt portfolio-wide screening and reformulation policies.
France enacts first national PFAS cosmetics ban
With EU action ongoing, France has gone further by introducing strict national measures against PFAS in cosmetics.
A decree passed at the end of 2025 brings a complete ban on PFAS in cosmetics beginning 1 January 2026, affecting production, imports, exports, and market sales.
This rule is one element of France’s broader campaign against PFAS, also affecting industries such as apparel and footwear.Uniquely, France’s law applies a group-based ban covering all PFAS substances, not just specific ingredients.
Cosmetic firms face immediate changes as a result:
- PFAS-containing cosmetic products will be prohibited from the French market in 2026
- All supply chains must achieve compliance with very tight PFAS thresholds
- Product reformulation is now required for claims such as long-wear or water resistance
Regulators across Europe are watching France’s policy, treating it as a trial case for wider EU PFAS regulation.
PFAS policy evolves in the United States
Elsewhere, US authorities are focusing increased attention on PFAS in cosmetics, but through gradual policy development rather than immediate bans.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has introduced updated guidelines covering PFAS-related safety analysis, reporting, and ingredient monitoring in response to stakeholder concern and industry trends.
Current US policy priorities include:
- Ongoing scientific review and surveillance of PFAS in personal care products
- Expanded transparency and new reporting obligations
- Coordination with state-level and federal PFAS policy efforts
while the US approach remains stepwise and research-driven, federal action is ramping up, laying the groundwork for more comprehensive controls in the future.
Global regulatory trends: Toward greater consistency
examined together, these actions reveal a global PFAS policy environment that’s fragmented yet becoming more aligned:
- Europe is advancing toward a worldwide PFAS restriction, guided by a transparent scientific and economic evaluation process
- France has moved early on implementation of a stringent ban, speeding up deadlines for market adaptation
- US agencies are prioritizing PFAS data collection and policy planning, which could set the stage for new binding requirements
The upshot for beauty companies is clear: PFAS oversight has become a key compliance risk and an area for innovation, influencing formulation choices, procurement, and forward planning.
Next steps: Preparing for stricter PFAS rules
The next year will prove decisive. The result of ECHA’s public feedback will define the details of the EU ban, such as specific carve-outs, dates of enforcement, and special provisions for cosmetic applications.
Many brands are already taking action by:
- Tracking PFAS usage throughout every product line
- Working closely with suppliers to increase supply chain visibility
- researching and investing in non-PFAS raw materials
With regulatory oversight tightening and consumer interest on the rise, effective PFAS management has developed into a top strategic concern for the global cosmetics sector.
